We all know that having a skincare routine is important to keep your face nourished and healthy. These days with all the free radicals in our environment, sun exposure, unhealthy diet, and even a stressful lifestyle can affect our skin.
And if you love your skin, just like me, then it is certain that you have your skincare routine. There can’t be enough treatments that you want to try such as elixirs, serums, face masks, and even trying a double cleanse like the popular Korean skincare routine.
But if you are someone who believes in the “less is more” approach, then cleaning your face and some sunscreen will do the trick.
However, if you want to elevate your skincare routine, then you might be interested in adding steam to your existing routine.
What is a facial steamer?
At a glance, you might think that it is just a gadget that blows out smoke, and for some who are a bit familiar with it, can help unclog your pores.
Essentially a facial steamer can make your overall skincare routine more effective. According to experts, along with moisturising your skin, it helps enhance and boost the benefits of your skincare routine. It helps in priming your skin for targeted treatments, helps promote blood circulation, and allows essential ingredients to be absorbed deeply in your skin.
Steaming also allows deeper cleansing of your skin which helps loosen any dirt buildup and softens blackheads that make it easier for you to remove.
Benefits of Facial Steaming
Steam provides many skin benefits. And we all know that our skin is the largest organ of the body. Hence, it is essential that taking care of your skin is your utmost concern.
Promotes better circulation
The combination of warm steam plus the increase in perspiration helps dilate your blood vessels which increases blood circulation. The boost in blood flow will help nourish your skin and deliver oxygen that results in a healthy and natural glow.
Releases trapped sebum and other skin-causing bacteria
When sebum gets trapped in your skin, it creates a breeding ground for bacteria that causes clogged pores resulting in acne and blackheads. With the help of steaming, it opens up the pores thus releasing dead skin cells, bacteria, and other impurities.
Boost skin hydration
Steam helps in increasing natural oils which contributes to moisturising the skin while keeping it hydrated and glowing.
Helps your skin to better absorb nutrients
Facial steaming increases your skin’s permeability that enables it to better absorb nutrients coming from skin care products. This means that you get the most out of them and will see better results due to the increase in absorption.
Promotes collagen and elastin production
Increased blood flow on your skin helps in producing more collagen and elastin in your skin. Hence, you will experience firmer and younger-looking skin.
Helps with sinus congestion
Aside from the benefits that it can give your skin, steaming also relieves nasal congestion and headaches that come with it. Adding essential oils to your steam can also increase the healing effect you can experience.
Provides a calming effect
Once you add steaming to your routine, you will find that it also helps in soothing and calming your nerves. A facial steam is a good way to pamper yourself after a long week of stress and hard work. Moreso, adding a few drops of your favourite essential oil can help you relax which can also help you go to sleep.
How to use your facial steamer?
It is easy to use and add steaming to your skincare routine. Here’s what you need to do:
Step 1: Cleanse your face
Before you start steaming, make sure that you wash and clean your face first. Get rid of any makeup especially in your eye area. As you cleanse, make sure that you cleanse your entire face thoroughly to remove all residue and dirt.
Step 2: Start steaming
Steaming should come once you are done cleansing your face. Make sure that you use distilled water when steaming your face because tap water contains minerals that can be absorbed into your skin. Over time, it can also clog your machine and may ruin it in the end.
Once your facial steamer is filled with water, turn it on and allow the steam to go through your face. You can control the temperature and you may place a towel in your head to lock the steam.
Do this for about 10 minutes or depending on your skin’s needs and reaction.
Step 3: Continue with your regular skincare routine
Once you are done steaming, you can continue with your regular skincare routine. Apply your serum, moisturiser, or face mask to finish the process.
How often should you steam your face?
The frequency of steaming your face will depend on the condition of your skin and level of sensitivity. Generally, steaming your face should be done no more than once a week. But it will still depend on your skin’s reaction to steaming.
How long should you steam your face?
Everyone’s skin is different so it will require some testing for you to know how long should you stay in front of the steam. There are some who can tolerate heat well, but there are others who may have reactions when steam is applied to their skin.
If you are a first-time user of facial steamers, make sure that you are 8 to 12 inches away from the machine. Sit for about two minutes then check your skin to see if there are any adverse reactions. If you don’t feel any irritation or your skin feels okay, continue up to 9 to 10 minutes.
But aside from that, it is also important that you carefully read the instructions that come along with your facial steamer. It will give information on how to take care of the machine including the time parameters of using it.
Fun fact about Nicola: She owns a lot of sunscreens as she carries a mini sunscreen in each of her handbags and backpacks.
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